Summary of Pillar I: Enhancing Peace and National Security

For decades, Security has been a major concern for Liberia. Security forces became a tool for repression and impunity that accentuated the total collapse of state apparatus. The security sector contributed to the system where power and economic wealth were accrued only to the elite while majority of Liberians languished in poverty and insecurity. The devastating civil conflict added to these problems as the security forces became major contributors of violence, destruction and denial of justice.

Though the security situation in Liberia has improved in the last few years, there is still a long way to go. Armed forces, police and all other security forces must be completely restructured and rebuilt. The process of broad security sector reform is on going coupled with a National Security Strategy in place. Extensive training is ongoing for the security sector. Programs to provide jobs for the youth and ex-combatants, reintegrate and resettle former internal displaced person, and return refugees will be combined with the effort of restructuring the security sector to enhance Peace and National Security.